What is the process when a novice enters a religious community?

"Erin Kelly of Harvard, Mass., took the white veil of a novice in the Community of the Slaves of the Immaculate Heart of Mary in Still River, Mass., on Aug. 15," Sister Marie Bernard emailed the Register recently.

"This step toward final profession was preceded by six months as a postulant with the sisters. Now, two years of prayer, study and work will lead Erin — now known as Sister Marie-Celine — toward her profession of temporary vows, a state that will last three years until her final profession.

"At the same ceremony, Clair Sonnier from Batesville, Ark., became a postulant, taking the first step to becoming a Slave of the Immaculate Heart of Mary.

"Family and friends filled the chapel of St. Benedict Center to capacity and celebrated afterward in the dining hall.

"The community lives a life of true devotion to Mary, a spirituality of consecration put forth in the writings of St. Louis Marie de Montfort."

Have you always wondered about some aspect of the faith? Or maybe you’d like to know some trivia about Pope Francis. If you do, email us your question at editor@ewtn.com and look for the answer in an upcoming issue.

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